Accessory Design Schools

In the dynamic field of fashion, attention to detail is the difference between average and stunning. Creating eye-catching fashion items such as handbags, scarves, and footwear opens the door to a world of educational options from pedorthics, materials, technical item design, presentation and construction, just to name a few.

Accessories such as parasols, fans, and gloves were all the rage in the Victorian era and held significance for women and men of status and lineage. Today, men and women of all ages and social status own countless accessories to complement their wardrobes. Accessories can be carried or worn, and include purses, wallets, umbrellas, canes, and shoes, jackets, watches, jewelry, gloves, and socks, just to name a few. Accessory design is typically offered as part of fashion or apparel design programs. Many schools offer certificate and degree programs with a chance to focus on multiple aspects and different professional specialties of the industry. Only a handful of schools in the US offers a specific degree in accessory design. The best schools provide a sweeping overview of the fashion and apparel industry, but offer a focus on accessory design, or at least an appreciable amount of accessory design classes, for those individuals who choose to specialize in this area. Coursework with cover all aspects of design, marketing, and business, and the professors will be respected professionals in the field. The best schools will meet high academic standards and prepare students for a career in the world of fashion. On this page, we provide a list of the nation’s best fashion/accessory design schools, along with guides and links to additional resources for students seeking education or training in a specific area of focus.

Cleveland Institute of Art

Celebrating over 130 years of educating students in the field of art; the Cleveland Institute of Art was established in 1882 and enjoys international recognition as a source of excellence and innovation.

School Type : Private

Enrollment : 606

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03

Massachusetts College of Art & Design

With its legacy beginning in 1873, Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt), is public, independent, and one of the nation’s oldest art schools. Stressing diversity and inclusiveness, MassArt fosters and encourages community-building, within and outside the college. Challenging students to transcend traditional boundaries, MassArt addresses the learning process within each student from a holistic standpoint. Valuing art as a life-enhancing force, there is an emphasis on academic excellence as a foundation for greatness.

School Type : Public

Enrollment : 1,990

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04

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute utilizes the city of New York as a literal classroom by engaging students in real life experiences including public critiques and internships with top design companies like Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan and more.

School Type : Private

Enrollment : 4,784

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05

Rhode Island School of Design

Nestled amidst the picturesque New England seaboard, Rhode Island School of Design has long been one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious colleges offering rigorous art programs at both an undergraduate and graduate level.

School Type : Private

Enrollment : 2,481

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06

University Of Cincinnati

A world-class research university, UC utilizes an interdisciplinary approach; complete with an international, prestigious faculty; a variety of workshop facilities, photography and computer graphics center and an experimental technology laboratory.

School Type : Public

Enrollment : 36,042

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07

UCLA School of the Arts & Architecture

405 Hilgard Ave Los Angeles, CA 90095

Located in the heart of one of the world’s cultural centers, the UCLA School of Art emphasizes the necessity of a profound interdependence between the creative arts and academic scholarship. Drawing from the richness of the surrounding culture, the School hosts a distinguished, world-famous faculty who effectively combine studio-based experience with critical studies and liberal arts. As part of a leading research university, students are guaranteed an exclusive and empowering education.

School Type : Public

Enrollment : 41,908

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08

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

With 32 creative majors, FIDM students have career options in Fashion, Visual Arts, Business, Interior Design, and Entertainment. In addition to Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degrees, FIDM offers degree programs in Advanced Study and Professional Designation. FIDM has 4 campus locations to choose from; Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orange County and San Diego and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and National Association of Schools and Colleges

Fashion Institute of Technology

FIT has consistently amassed international acclaim and recognition for its programs in fashion, design, art, communications and business. Its rigorous curriculum is steeped in its commitment to research, experiential learning, adaptable academics and industry partnerships.

School Type : Public

Enrollment : 9,565

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11

College for Creative Studies

Established in 1906, the College for Creative Studies is a small, private, fully-accredited institution of higher learning. Diversity and inclusion characterize the student body: undergraduates hail from 35 states and 24 countries; while the graduate population is comprised of 81% international enrollees from 8 countries. Located in Midtown Detroit, students enjoy the long-established, rich culture of the city. From the Detroit Film Theatre and the Detroit Institute of Arts; to the libraries, galleries and famous restaurants; both college and students can leverage the educational opportunities provided by the urban community.

School Type : Private

Enrollment : 1,487

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